Kranti, Here and Beyond

By Cultural Correspondent
16 January 2005, 18:00 PM
A film with a message. This captures the essence of the cinematic workKranti, Here & Beyond, which has been sponsored by the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST). The focus is on gender-related issues and the values that drive the search for solutions in a predominantly patriarchal society. The film will be premiered today at the CIRDAP auditorium, says a press release.

The story begins here and now. The focus is on a rural community and follows the path of a woman activist Rokeya and three young women who have been traumatised by a patriarchal society.

There is Alekjan, a poor woman. Seduced with the promise of marriage, she finds herself as an unwed mother. After many twists and turns, she approaches Rokeya to help find a solution.

Second, is Shiuli, a simple village girl, coming from a fairly well-off family. Unable to fulfill the dowry demand of her in-laws, Shiuli is sent back to her maternal home. In her search for the meaning of life, she enlists Rokeya's support.

The most harrowing tale is that of 14-year-old Amina, who has been raped. Rokey and her team come to her traumatised parents and initiate legal action against the perpetrator.

Mirza Hassan is behind the story, screenplay and direction, while the cast comprises Rokeya Prachy, Runa Khan, Jhumu, Anushua and Shoeb.